The American flag belongs to all of us. Fly it proudly.

Friday

The Red, White and Blue fluttering behind a truck has become an icon of the "new right." Conservative and liberal protestors are described as "flag wavers" against non-wavers.

The flag I proudly display outside my house has been stolen once and vandalized twice. My assumption is I’m being identified as a Trump supporter. I am not. I am, however, a proud American. Our stars and stripes are a statement to this.

One side does not own patriotism. It is a testament to all the feelings we have for our country. Originally flown at our home to show support for our son deployed in Iraq, it has remained to show support for our country. Not perfect, the United States is still our country.

The flag does not represent the negatives; the questionable leadership; the runaway capitalism; nor the perpetual wars. It represents the good, the bounty, the freedom. It is a symbol of our love, compassion, and gratitude for not only our country but also our fellow country men and women. Let’s not weaken or cheapen its image. Fly it proudly. Fly it boldly. It belongs to all of us.

Dale Mostkoff, Eugene

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